Then, pregnancy did a number on my taste buds and “Ta Da!” I craved them like no other. Still do! And I suspect the doughnut-loving part of my soul always will.

Awhile back I explored all the doughnut places our family loves north of Seattle, and this time I’m thrilled to be back with our top picks from down south. One of which just happens to be my all-time favorite shop!

This is my number one. My all-time favorite doughnut shop! My husband introduced me to Original House of Donuts a few years back and whenever we pass through this part of I-5 I beg him to stop. A Tacoma staple, Original House of Donuts has been around since 1959 and has apparently perfected the art of doughnuts. I’m not the only one who is obsessed. Always fresh and occasionally sold out of some varieties, these donuts fly off the shelf by the dozen.

An extra perk - Original House of Donuts has a drive thru!

Our family’s top recommendations: Everything! But lately, I’m all about the chocolate mint cake doughnut. It reminds me so much of a Girl Scout Thin Mint - I just love it!

You can easily spend all morning or afternoon at family owned Lattin’s Country Cider Mill and Farm in Olympia. They’re included in this list for their extraordinary doughnuts, but be warned - Lattin’s is full of fun and other treats. From animals you can meet ‘n greet to seasonal fare and their delightful cider varieties, Lattin’s will not disappoint.

Here’s the trick with Lattins’ though, if fritters are your must eat, take note that the fresh apple fritters (that means warm and melt in your mouth divine!) are only available Thursday and Friday before noon and all day on Saturdays. So, definitely try to swing by on those days/times if fritters are one of your favorites.

Our family’s top recommendations: Apple fritters, of course! And the classic cider doughnuts too. Those are naturally sweet and perfect for little ones or those of us who want a treat without a ton of extra sugar.

The art wall drew us in and the amazing taste keeps us coming back - Doos definitely has delicious doughnuts! How’s that for a little doughnut-inspired alliteration?

Doos Donuts is a relatively new shop in comparison to the others on this list. I actually remember when they opened three short years ago in 2015. We quickly scoped them out and now, when we visit family in the area, we always stop. How could you not when they offer exotic flavors like blueberry cream cheese, bacon jalapeño and peanut butter?

In addition to the exotics, Doos offers vegan and gluten-free doughnuts. So, yes, almost everyone can partake in a sweet treat at Doos!

Our family’s top recommendations: Last visit I asked my kids for a taste of each of their doughnuts and my son’s maple bar was crazy good. Definitely ordering that for myself next time - you should too!

Everyone who knows about the Donut Nook knows it is a no frills shop with nostalgic charm. Wood paneling anyone?

The doughnuts and the constant customers speak for themselves - Donut Nook is Southwest Washington’s go-to doughnut place! When Vancouver was our home, we spent many a Saturday morning sharing a box of donuts with friends and family. Don’t you just love how doughnuts bring people together?

When you visit, sit and stay for a cup of coffee alongside your doughnut of choice and keep in mind that coffee refills are free!

Our family’s top recommendations: It’s a tie between the bacon maple bars and the buttermilk bars. Oh, and the cherry fritters!

4403 NE St Johns RdVancouver, WA 98661

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